Any advice for a student who's starting EMT-Basic?

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ELN1NO21015

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I am currently enrolled in Laguardia Community College and I'm finishing up my classes and starting EMT-Basic training. I would like to work as a paramedic for the FDNY. If there is anyone in the field already and has advice plz message me. Thank you I would appreciate it.
 
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Well first let me say welcome to the boards. I know I'm pretty new here myself but I can tell you that we do have a wide aray of medical professionals here. As someone that has recently completed the EMT-B course I can offer these small tips of advice.

-Be prepared for class. Bring your books, paper for notes, and 2 pens or pencils. You would be amazed how many people fail at this very basic concept.

-Be attentive to the instructor and listen to what he or she has to say.

-Attend each class slightly early. You'd be amazed how much fun you can have and even learn from the instructor or other class mates BEFORE the class starts.

-Be ready to work as a team. In most services you will be part of a crew so be prepared to work as one. Learn your strengths and weaknesses.

-Dont be afraid to ask for help or clarification. Sometimes an instructor will throw around medical terms so fast your head can spin. Throw up that hand and ask "huh? what was that term?"

-Study groups. Preferably with people that are either in your class or have taken the EMT-B. Even better if they have acsess to equipment. (I.e Longboard, KED, AED, O2, Stretcher.)

-Youtube. Search for NREMT Practical Stations. Theres a group out of PA that did a great job documenting how your practicals are going to go.

-Have fun. Take it seriously but have fun. EMT's are a rare species. We deal with alot. If someone has called for you its usally one of the worst days of thier lives. So take that into consideration if someone is harsh or yelling at you. Be calming and soothing and not bossy.

-Show confidence. Take control but show compassion for your patients. (Esp the Psych ones ;)

-And lastly, Never stop learning. Read this fourm, Read JEMS.com, Never stop learning. Theres always gunna be some new gadget or toy out there that might make your job easier.

I know its alot but if you put the dedication into it you will do fine. I'm here on this fourm if you need help too. Just drop me a PM if you got any other questions.

Good Luck and Have fun!
 
First, you are just about to start you basic class. FOCUS on the basic class and your BLS skills before you start worrying about your Paramedic. The basic is one of many steps to become a Paramedic.

Listen to your instructors. Practice your skills. Read your book and powerpoints. When you get the opportunity to do a skill during your ride phase of training do it. If you dont know exactly how to do it ASK! Just remember EVERY SINGLE ONE OF US, with maybe one exception of the guy who runs around in a Orange Jump Suit with DOCTOR on the back, was a student and was in the exact same place you were.
 
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Study and don't sweat the load. It's not that hard.

MTK sends.

"All of man's work is a bloody business. That fact, today, is considered foolish, affairs are finished cleverly with words alone, and jobs that require effort are avoided. I would like young men to have some understanding of this."
Yamamoto Tsunetomo
Hagakure, The Book of The Samurai
 
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My advice to you is: Scene Safe. BSI. :rolleyes:

You've gotten some great advice here, I'd just like to add one thing...

While learning the concepts in class, if you find yourself getting lost, ask for clarification immediately. I cannot tell you how many students I have seen sit there, shake their head "yes"... and pretend they are following when they have no idea where the instructor is at. You will notice that a lot of things you will learn in class will build upon a foundation. If your foundation has cracks in it, the building will never be sturdy. Do NOT be afraid to ask questions, or let anyone pressure you into feigning understanding.

Enjoy your class, and good luck! B)
 
Welcome aboard! I too am about to start my EMT basic. Currently I am taking anatomy & physiology, medical terminology, and psychology as core classes at Austin Community College, but the fun starts January 15th. I started the whole crazy vaccination and enrollment process last February, got on the waiting list in June, and start basic in January. So I am chomping at the bit! When do you start your basic? Lets keep in touch so we can compare our experiences. All the best to you!
 
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Also, once you're certified. Enjoy the long wait from the fdny, to get a call from them.
 
-read your book
-listen in class
-ask ur teacher questions if you dont understand something.

solid basic skills make for a solid knowledgeable paramedic.

& ask questions here!
 
ELN1NO21015 said:
I am currently enrolled in Laguardia Community College and I'm finishing up my classes and starting EMT-Basic training. I would like to work as a paramedic for the FDNY. If there is anyone in the field already and has advice plz message me. Thank you I would appreciate it.
Click to expand...

Good to see long term goals, but I imagine fdny would like to see experience as an emt-b prior to medic, so dont expect it to be a quick process. Just focus on the short term of getting your basic and getting employed before pursuing medic. Paramedic is a whole different league.

-Don't fall asleep during class, exams can be sneaky
-no question is stupid, as long as it's relevant and appropriate
-I stress learning basic skills like you know the alphabet. Once you master assessment, you will do great and everything will come easier
 
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